Dermot Gallagher assessing Premier League matches and key officiating decisions.

Dermot Gallagher Reviews Controversial Premier League Moments: Insights and Analysis

Controversial Premier League Moments Analyzed

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher returns this week to shed light on the contentious incidents that unfolded over the weekend. As fans debate these crucial moments, Gallagher provides his expert insights. Let’s dive into the major incidents and see how viewers can contribute their opinions.

Bournemouth’s Disallowed Goal: Should Ouattara’s Goal Have Stood?

Incident: Bournemouth was denied what appeared to be a stoppage-time winner against Newcastle when Dango Ouattara scored a header from a corner. Initially ruled a goal by referee David Coote, VAR intervened, citing a handball despite replays suggesting the ball had actually struck Ouattara’s shoulder.

Gallagher’s Opinion: Dermot noted, "It raises valid concerns since everyone expected the goal to stand. The VAR feedback deemed it a factual handball decision, but I believe the interpretation was subjective. Many will support my view over the VAR's claim."

Sue Smith Adds: "I thought the ball hit the shoulder. Some argue that if there is any doubt, the goal should count. David Coote was in a tough spot here."

Should Newcastle’s Joelinton Have Seen Red?

Incident: In stoppage time, Joelinton was merely booked for wrapping his arm around goalkeeper Neto, preventing a quick throw-in.

Gallagher’s Take: "His intention was solely to delay play—not to harm Neto. Hence, I wouldn’t classify it as a red card. The context and movement are key here."

Did Garnacho’s Goal Should Have Counted?

Incident: In a tight situation against Brighton, Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee inadvertently impeded a scoring chance by being in an offside position.

Gallagher Remarks: "Zirkzee instinctively tried to score, but his touch was offside. The moment he touches the ball from an offside stance, the goal cannot count."

Was Jota’s Challenge Worth a Red Card?

Incident: Jota avoided any punishment after a controversial arm challenge against Nathan Collins during Liverpool’s win over Brentford.

Gallagher Responds: "While Jota’s arm did catch Collins, it wasn’t deliberate or weapon-like. A yellow could be debated, but a straight red seems excessive in this context."

Leicester’s Disallowed Goal: Was the VAR Decision Correct?

Incident: Initially ruled offside, Wout Faes’s goal was allowed after VAR assessed Jamie Vardy’s contribution to the play.

Gallagher’s Perspective: "Excellent job by VAR. Vardy’s position didn’t interfere with the save attempt, and Faes’s header rightfully counted as a goal."

Was the Penalty Call in the Man City Match Justified?

Incident: A challenge by Ipswich’s Leif Davis on Savinho drew VAR’s attention, leading to a penalty being awarded.

Gallagher Comments: "The foul was clear; Davis didn’t get the ball. The referee accurately corrected his decision after checking VAR. This is where VAR truly shines, turning a clear error into a correct call."

Stephen Warnock Adds: "This situation reflects the ongoing conversation about VAR’s influence in the game. While some see it as re-refereeing, this was warranted. If the ref misses it, VAR must step in."

Did Mosquera Escape a Red Card?

Incident: Wolves’ Yerson Mosquera faced only a yellow for a risky challenge on Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo.

Gallagher’s Insight: "In fairness, if a foul was called on Cucurella before this incident, it might have changed the outcome. However, considering everything, the referee managed the situation reasonably."

Final Thoughts

The weekend’s matches were filled with heated moments, and Gallagher provides compelling interpretations of these calls. What do you think about these rulings? Share your opinions and join the conversation!

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